Query:
How serious are bowel polyps?
Article:
Bowel polyps are abnormal growths that form on the lining of the bowel, also known as the large intestine. They are usually harmless, however, in some cases, they can develop into cancerous tumors. As such, it is important to understand the seriousness of bowel polyps, and how to identify and treat them.
Bowel polyps can be classified into two categories; adenomatous polyps and hyperplastic polyps. Adenomatous polyps are the most common type of polyps, and they have the potential to become cancerous. Hyperplastic polyps, on the other hand, are not cancerous, but can cause inflammation and discomfort.
The most common symptom of bowel polyps is bleeding from the rectum. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor will use a variety of diagnostic tools to diagnose bowel polyps, including a physical examination, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and biopsy. During a colonoscopy, your doctor will examine the inside of your colon and take images of any polyps they detect. During a sigmoidoscopy, your doctor will use a thin, flexible tube to take a sample from the polyp and send it to a laboratory for further testing.
The treatment for bowel polyps depends on the type, size, and location of the polyp. Small polyps may be removed during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, while larger polyps may require more extensive surgery. In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation may be used to treat cancerous polyps.
In conclusion, bowel polyps are abnormal growths that can be classified into two categories; adenomatous and hyperplastic. While most polyps are harmless, some have the potential to become cancerous. If you experience any symptoms of bowel polyps, it is important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will use a variety of diagnostic tools to diagnose and treat the polyps, and the treatment will depend on the type, size, and location of the polyps.